MSC Commercial, a division of Michael Saunders & Company, has closed a significant retail sale at 1800 U.S. 301 in Palmetto, Fla., for just over $2.9 million. Agents Steven Larkin and Susan Goldstein of Michael Saunders & Company represented the buyer, Detwiler’s Farm Market.

According to Xcelignet, the sale is the second largest retail property sale in Manatee County and the largest single-occupant retail property purchased this year.

“Detwiler’s Farm Market determined that this eight-acre site, with more than 50,000 square feet of commercial space, was an ideal location for its fourth store on the Gulf Coast. They are thrilled to be making an entry into Manatee County and the City of Palmetto,” said Goldstein. “With the property vacant for more than 10 years, this is an excellent example of Michael Saunders & Company’s strength in helping our buyers find and re-position existing opportunities.”

Detwiler’s Farm Market, which began as a roadside stand in 2002, is owned and operated by Henry and Natalie Detwiler and their nine children. The company’s flagship store in Sarasota opened in 2008, and the company also has stores in Venice and Sarasota on University Parkway. The Palmetto store will be the company’s largest and will employ more than 100 staff members.

“It has been a pleasure working with the Detwiler family on their newest endeavor,” said Matt Drews, Director of MSC Commercial. “We are honored that they have chosen Michael Saunders & Company to be their exclusive Commercial Real Estate representative as their business expands, and we look forward to continuing this longstanding relationship.”